Trauma Code: A Hero In Love

Oh my godddddddd Ju Jihoon. Imagine existing with a face like that. Yes even his little eye, it is so charming, fuck me uppppppppppp

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

A series of one-shot stories between Dr. Baek Kang Hyuk (Ju Jihoon) and Dr. Song Hye Joo (Song Hyekyo)

When Dr. Baek’s former med school rival, Dr. Song Hyejoo, joins the trauma center team, his usual composure is shaken—just a little competitive, and maybe a little shy. As they face emergencies together, they learn to work in sync, and they rediscover something they never dared explore before.

This will be a series of one-shot stories between Dr. Baek Kang-hyuk and Dr. Song Hye-joo (my OC; played by Song Hyekyo, because why not. Also I badly need the casting directors to pair them for a romcom or melo drama together 👉🏻👈🏻).

It’s not a story where everything is in chronological order or a continuation of what happened to the previous chapters. It’s like a series of moments.

Might include a chapter with their backstory in university and when they met again after many years when Dr. Song is introduced as the new addition to the trauma center team before I upload a series of chapter moments between them ><

I tried to keep Dr. Baek Kang-hyuk’s character as similar and accurate as I can, but you know what, 🎀 I’m just a girl 🎀 who wants to see him be a little clumsy and shy around his (secret) crush. So if it’s a little inaccurate or if you think it’s out of character, then I’m so sorry asdfsghjkg ;—; but isn’t it fun to imagine the cool (sexy) hot-tempered doctor become a fool in love for someone? Like a total loser. Frankly it’s my favorite character trope. He’s all mean and scowly with other people, and then he absolutely melts and malfunctions when a beautiful, strong, and intelligent woman (a.k.a his long-time crush) comes near him.

Anyway, I hope you guys enjoy it!!🥹 I’ve already written A LOT of random chapters. And I might also include a little bit of nsfw, or maybe just suggestive, IDK I have no experience in writing sensual scenes, I feel like it’s gonna sound cringey when I do it wish me luck🥲👍🏻

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Chapter List:

1.1 Early Symptoms of Trouble 1.2 Side Effects May Include... 1.3 Cardiac Complications

Flashback 1: Brief Encounters at Med School Flashback 2: Reunion in the Trauma Bay Flashback 3: Check His Vitals— She's Back

2.1 Diagnosis - Obvious 2.2 Late Night Consultations - Catching Up

3.1 A Prescription for Lunch 3.2 White Coats & Warm Blankets

4.1 The Mom & Dad of the Trauma Center 4.2 Code Blue - Parental Unit 4.3 When Dr. Dad Noticed 4.4 When Dr. Mom Noticed

CHOI SAN WTF ASDFGHGJJGKDKJ

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

genre: romance, slow-burn, fluff, angst, sexual tension, mutual pining

Chapter 4: In His Care

Chaewoon’s protective instincts toward Haein become more apparent as he observes her every move with quiet care. His subtle gestures and watchful presence reveal a side of him that Haein begins to notice—one that goes beyond his role as a bodyguard.

It had been a week since Chaewoon became Haein’s bodyguard, and in that time, he’d already learned to read her like an open book. Watching her through the glass walls of her office, he could tell just by the way she furrowed her brows and gripped the paper tighter—something was bothering her.

Five, four, three, two, one... he counted in his head.

As expected, Haein’s sharp voice rang out, “What happened to decorating the personal shopper room like a gallery? The artist’s reputation and colors don’t suit the interior design.”

Chaewoon couldn’t help but smile. Yelling and glaring like that, she looks so mean.

But then, just as quickly, her expression shifted, a satisfied smile curling on her lips as she flipped to the next page. “Yes, this is what I was talking about.”

She looks excited, Chaewoon thought, still watching her every move.

The annoyed Haein from moments ago was gone, replaced by a woman pleased with what she saw. And just as Haein’s lips slightly curled up, Chaewoon’s own little smile started to falter. For a moment, time slowed down, and for some reason, he could not look away at her smiling face.

He cleared his throat, forcing himself to look away and stare blankly at the opposite wall, as if that would shake the strange, unsettling feeling that had taken hold of him.

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HAEIN'S POV

Hong Haein wasn’t used to people caring about her—not in the way Woo Chaewoon did.

Not that she would ever admit it.

But for a while now, she had stopped trying to shake him off. That didn’t mean she liked his presence, but she had accepted, begrudgingly, that he was annoyingly efficient at his job.

She just hadn’t expected him to be so… considerate.

1. The Elevator Incident

It started in the company lobby. Haein was walking ahead, clicking through emails on her phone, when the elevator doors opened. She stepped in without thinking.

Then, in a single swift motion, Chaewoon reached out, placed a firm hand on the small of her back, and pulled her back just as a man rushed out, nearly knocking into her.

She barely had time to react before she found herself standing inches from him, her back against his chest.

“Watch your step,” he murmured, his hand falling away the second the man passed.

Haein straightened, clearing her throat. “I had it under control.”

Chaewoon didn’t argue, simply stepping inside after her. “Of course, ma’am.”

She turned to glare at him, only to find the faintest hint of amusement in his eyes.

Infuriating.

2. The Heels Problem

Later that day, she had back-to-back meetings, which meant strutting around the office in heels that looked good but felt like a medieval torture device.

By the time she stepped outside, her feet were killing her.

As they reached the car, Chaewoon—without a word—opened the door for her, then subtly adjusted the car mat so she could rest her feet more comfortably.

It was such a small gesture, so smooth, that she almost missed it.

She slid into the seat, watching as he walked around to the front. Inside the car was also a pair of soft comfy slippers that was not originally there.

Her jaw tightened. He wasn’t supposed to be like this. He was supposed to be just another disposable bodyguard, a shadow she could ignore.

Then why was he making it so difficult?

3. The Rain

By the time they arrived at a charity gala that evening, it had started raining. Hard.

As usual, Chaewoon was the first to step out of the car. He retrieved an umbrella, opened her door, and held it above her.

Haein, exhausted and mildly annoyed at the world, reached for the umbrella.

“I can hold it myself.”

Chaewoon, as always, was unmoved. “That’s my job.”

She stepped out, expecting him to keep a respectable distance. Instead, he adjusted the umbrella so that she was completely covered—even if it meant part of his shoulder got drenched.

She noticed. And she hated that she noticed.

By the time they entered the building, she found herself stealing glances at his wet sleeve.

Chaewoon brought her a towel, his expression as calm as ever. She expected him to use it to dry himself off, but instead, he held it out to her.

She raised an eyebrow, about to refuse, when he paused for a brief moment. Then, with surprising grace, he knelt down in front of her, positioning the towel to wipe her shoes.

Oh, my shoes are wet.

The realization hit her like a bolt of lightning. Haein instinctively stepped back just as his hand was about to touch the leather.

“You don’t need to do that. You’re not my servant,” she said, her tone sharper than she intended. She cleared her throat, trying to regain some composure. “Wipe yourself instead. You’re drenched.”

She huffed, a bit embarrassed by the sudden awkwardness, and turned on her heel, walking briskly into the gala without looking back.

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CHAEWOON'S POV

The Elevator

Woo Chaewoon was always quick on his feet. So, when Haein, her attention absorbed by her phone, failed to notice the man about to collide with her as the elevator doors opened, he reacted instinctively.

Chaewoon's reflexes kicked in without thinking. His hand moved swiftly to the small of her back, steadying her just as a man rushed out, too close for comfort.

For a brief moment, he felt her back tense against his chest as he pulled her away. The contact surprisingly electric, but he didn’t let it show. He barely heard her breath catch in her throat, but he noticed.

"Watch your step," he murmured quietly, making sure the man passed safely before letting his hand fall away from her back.

She straightened up quickly, her back stiff. He could feel the subtle shift in her posture as she composed herself.

“I had it under control,” she said, voice a little sharp, but he didn’t respond to the challenge in her tone.

Instead, he stepped into the elevator after her, keeping his face unreadable. “Of course, ma’am.”

She turned to glare at him, her eyes narrowing in irritation. But for just a moment, he caught the faintest flicker of something else there—amusement, maybe. It was gone too quickly for him to dwell on, but it made him smile to himself, just the slightest curve of his lips.

Infuriating. But somehow, she made it worth it.

2. The Heels

Chaewoon had learned to notice the small signs that Haein never acknowledged. He could see it in the way she walked—stiff, her heels clicking sharply against the floor as if she were fighting the discomfort that no one else seemed to notice. Her back straightened, her pace measured, but there was always that subtle shift in her posture after each long meeting. The heels, he knew, were not made for comfort. He also knew she would never be the type to wear flats outside.

So, when they reached the car after a long day, Chaewoon opened the door for her without a word, then quickly adjusted the car mat under her feet. It wasn’t much, just enough to give her a bit of relief, and he did it so smoothly that she almost didn’t catch it.

But she did.

As she slid into the car, he caught the slight wince in her face, then the subtle relief as she settled into the seat. Chaewoon walked around to the front, but when he opened the door to slide in, he saw her eyes lingering on the pair of slippers he had neatly placed inside for her.

Her gaze was confused, almost questioning.

It was an ordinary thing, a small act of care, but it was enough for him to see the slight stiffening in her jaw. He couldn’t help but wonder why she was so resistant to the simplest gestures. After all, he was only doing his job. But still, the thought lingered. She wasn’t supposed to be this difficult to ignore.

Yet, here she was, making it harder than it should be.

3. The Rain

Chaewoon didn’t expect her to notice. The rain had soaked through part of his sleeve, but it wasn’t the first time, and it wouldn’t be the last. He held the umbrella steady over her, making sure not a single drop touched her, while the cold slowly seeped into his own shoulder. It wasn’t anything out of the ordinary. It was his job.

But then, she looked.

It was quick, just a glance at his wet sleeve, but he caught it. The slight pause in her step, the way her gaze lingered a fraction too long before she looked away. She noticed. He wasn’t sure why that detail mattered, but for some reason, it did.

By the time they reached the entrance, she was back to her usual self—sharp, composed, untouchable. But Chaewoon had seen the flicker of something else. He returned with a towel, expecting her to take it without a second thought. Instead, she hesitated.

So he did what came naturally—knelt down in front of her.

Her shoes were wet. He had noticed, of course, just as he noticed the slight shift in her stance, the way she tensed the second she realized what he was about to do. Then, before he could even move, she stepped back.

“You don’t need to do that. You’re not my servant.” Her voice was clipped, but it wasn’t anger. It was something else—something that made her avert her gaze a second too late.

Chaewoon didn’t argue. He simply stood, towel still in hand, watching as she walked away quicker than usual, like she was trying to escape something.

As she walked further ahead, Chaewoon’s eyes followed her. His gaze lingered just a moment longer, catching the flush of her ears—redder than usual.

He wondered if it was the cold, or if it was something else entirely.

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It was another busy day for Hong Haein, this time at Queen’s Department Store. She was making her way through the floors when a commotion near the cosmetics section caught her attention. A small crowd had gathered, murmuring among themselves as an angry man raised his voice at one of the employees.

At first, Haein didn’t interfere, simply observing from a distance.

The customer was demanding a refund for a product that was nearly used up. The employee, a young woman, remained professional, explaining that refunds weren’t possible once the product was almost empty. But the man wasn’t listening. Instead, he insisted—loudly—that his girlfriend’s skin had worsened because of it. A blatant lie. It was a common trick—buy, use, complain, and demand a refund.

But then, the situation escalated.

Frustrated by the refusal, the man swiped an arm across the counter, knocking over bottles and compacts. The sharp sound of breaking glass made the employee flinch.

“Do you think I’m some kind of joke?” His voice rose, and so did his hand.

Chaewoon, standing silently nearby, was already prepared to intervene. But before he could move, Haein was already stepping in.

She caught the man’s wrist mid-air, stopping his hand before it could strike the employee.

“And who the hell are you?!” he snapped, yanking his arm back. His face twisted in outrage, as if personally offended that a woman had dared to stop him.

Haein’s expression remained calm, her voice unwavering. “This is not a place for such behavior.”

The man scoffed. “Then bring me your CEO. I don’t have time for people like you.”

“You’re looking for me?”

His face faltered for a second before he recovered. “So you’re the CEO?” He sneered, folding his arms. “Figures. No wonder your employees are incompetent. Why did you not train your employee properly then!?”

“You’re right,” she said coolly. “Maybe I haven’t trained them properly.” She turned to the employee, glancing at the nametag. “Ms. Kim Minji?”

The young woman tensed, clearly expecting a reprimand.

Haein sighed and crossed her arms. “Your job is to deal with customers only. As for criminals, report them to the police immediately.”

The man’s face reddened. “Wow. A criminal? So now you’re insulting customers? The CEO of this mall looks down on people. We will sue you.”

Haein simply smiled. Behind her, Chaewoon observed the scene with quiet amusement.

“Please do,” she said lightly. “I’ll be suing as well.”

The man sputtered. “What did you just say?!”

His temper snapped. His hand moved again, this time toward Haein.

But before he could get close, a shadow loomed over him.

Chaewoon was already there.

His tall frame blocked the man completely, cutting off his path like an immovable wall. His movements were smooth, effortless, but his presence alone was enough to make the air feel heavier. In one swift motion, his hand wrapped around the man’s wrist—not rough, not violent, but firm. A controlled grip, precise and unyielding.

The shift in atmosphere was instant.

The man’s anger wavered, his bravado shrinking under the weight of Chaewoon’s presence. Up close, he could see the way Chaewoon carried himself—not just as an employee, not just as security, but as someone who was dangerous in all the ways that mattered. There was no unnecessary aggression in his stance, no tension in his shoulders, no wild anger in his eyes. Just cold, calculated control. The kind that made people second-guess their next move.

For the first time since the commotion started, the man hesitated.

Chaewoon’s grip didn’t tighten, but the unspoken message was clear: Don’t try it.

The man swallowed. His wrist, though not in pain, felt like it was caught in something unshakable. He looked around, as if realizing how quiet the crowd had gone, how the eyes that once watched in amusement were now filled with anticipation—waiting to see if he would be foolish enough to push further.

He wasn’t.

“You can be charged with obstruction of business, property damage, and attempted assault,” Chaewoon said evenly. His voice wasn’t loud, but it didn’t need to be. It carried the kind of weight that made people listen.

Haein tilted her head, unfazed. “And I’ll add another lawsuit for the sales loss you caused.” She turned to the crowd. “Did you all get that on camera?”

A chorus of affirmations rose from the spectators, many holding up their phones, their screens still recording. A few even cheered.

The man looked around, suddenly realizing how outnumbered he was.

“Take them to the police,” Haein ordered as security finally arrived, stepping forward to apprehend him.

As the man was dragged away, Haein turned back to Chaewoon, a satisfied smile on her face. He met her gaze, his own expression unreadable.

She gave him a small nod. “Let’s go.”

Without another word, Chaewoon followed.

On their way back to the company, Haein found herself replaying the moment in her head.

It had happened so fast. One second, she was handling the situation as she always did—calm, composed, in control. The next, a hand had been raised in her direction, and before she could even react, a shadow had stepped in front of her.

Chaewoon.

Haein had barely registered the movement before he was there, his tall frame blocking her completely. The space that had once felt open was suddenly filled—broad shoulders, solid stance, the subtle shift of muscle beneath his suit.

She hadn’t been expecting it.

She had seen him be cautious before, seen the way he silently observed her surroundings. But this was different.

His hand had wrapped around the man’s wrist—not roughly, not aggressively, but with a kind of controlled force that left no room for argument.

She hadn’t seen his face at first, only the sharp line of his jaw from the side, the way his fingers flexed slightly as if calculating the exact amount of strength needed to hold back without breaking.

Then she had seen the change in the man’s expression. The way his anger faltered, the realization creeping in. He had thought he could intimidate her, but now he was faced with someone he couldn’t push, someone who didn’t even need to raise his voice to make his presence known.

“You can be charged with obstruction of business, property damage, and attempted assault,” Chaewoon had said, his voice low, even. It wasn’t loud, but it carried the kind of weight that made people listen.

Chaewoon didn’t move, his stance unwavering, his hand still gripping the man’s wrist as he watched him with cool detachment. And for the first time, Haein realized something.

For all the quiet patience she had seen in Woo Chaewoon, there was another side to him. A side that wouldn’t hesitate to shield her the moment someone dared to lay a hand on her.

And for reasons she couldn’t quite place, she found herself staring at him just a moment longer than necessary.

Gentle, quiet, patient Woo Chaewoon. You had this side to you, huh?

The thought followed her into the car. As they drove in silence, she caught a glimpse of him through the rearview mirror. He looked the same as always—calm, focused, completely unbothered.

She clicked her tongue and turned to the window, blinking more times than necessary.

As if that would make her stop thinking about it.

From the front seat, Chaewoon felt Haein’s gaze linger on him. He kept his eyes on the road, but he noticed everything—the slight shift in her seat, the way she suddenly blinked faster before turning to the window.

For a brief moment, he felt… aware of himself. Just a little.

But why?

Why did her gaze make him falter, even for a second?

He didn’t know.

< Chapter 3 Chapter 5 >

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incorporated some QOT scenes in the story >< will also incorporate BF scenes next chapters!

I feel like maybe the story's pacing is a little slow I noticed that it has fewer readers each chapter🥲 maybe the slow-burn is burning too slow?🥲

but it's fine! I was momentarily discouraged to continue it but honestly, I think I'm also writing this story mostly for myself hihi it's been a loonnggg while since I started writing something again, like actually writing and not just daydreaming about it throughout the day

thank you again who's still tuning in! <3

taglist: @lvnat1c <3

UNSPOKEN (말하지 않은)

genre: romance, slow-burn, fluff, angst, sexual tension, mutual pining

Chapter 10: A Worry He Couldn’t Name

As Haein pushes through her busy days quiet symptoms begin to surface—headaches, dizziness, and fatigue she brushes off. But Chaewoon notices it all, his silent concern growing. But as the days pass, it becomes harder for either of them to pretend nothing’s wrong.

Haein leaned back in her chair, brows furrowed, as she stared at Chaewoon through the glass walls of her office. She had been noticing it lately—how he was being extra attentive toward her.

Chaewoon had always been different from other bodyguards. He wasn’t just the silent, stoic type standing at a distance. He went above and beyond, a quiet presence who handled everything before she even thought to ask.

And she didn’t mind it.

In fact, she had gotten used to it—the way he was always there, the silent acts of service, the gentleness laced into his actions and words. She had grown so accustomed to him that sometimes, she forgot to notice how much she relied on his presence.

But lately… something was different.

It started one afternoon.

She had been getting headaches for days—nothing serious, she thought. Just the usual stress. She would pop a pill, drink some water, and move on with her day.

But Chaewoon had begun hovering more than necessary.

When her throat went dry during a meeting and she coughed lightly, he was at her side almost instantly, a glass of water in hand.

“Are you alright? Should I call someone to check on you?” he whispered, concern etched into his face. Haein waved him off. “…My throat was just dry. Calm down.”

Another time, during rounds at Queen’s Department Store, she misstepped slightly on the escalator. Chaewoon immediately caught her arm, steadying her before she could fall.

“The whole point of an escalator is so you don’t have to walk,” he muttered with a tsk, examining her feet briefly. “Everyone walks on escalators,” Haein scoffed.

“But you’re wearing high heels,” he said, exasperated. “Please be more careful.”

She rolled her eyes. “You’re getting annoying, you know that?”

And just yesterday, as she sat reviewing documents, her fingers absentmindedly pressing against her forehead, she hadn’t even noticed him approach until he was standing beside her table—with food in hand.

“You haven’t eaten yet,” he said matter-of-factly. “I’m not hungry,” she replied without looking up.

“Your head’s going to hurt again if you keep starving yourself,” he said softly, lowering the paper she was reading and placing the neatly packed food in front of her. “Please eat.”

But, there was a reason why Chaewoon had been acting this way lately.

Chaewoon had always been observant. He was quick to notice the smallest changes—the slight shifts in a person’s behavior, the quiet signals that something was wrong. And he didn’t fail to notice the changes happening to Hong Haein.

It started one afternoon.

Chaewoon stood just right outside the door, his eyes scanning the quiet office as Haein worked, her sharp focus on the documents before her. But as he watched her, a subtle unease began to creep into him. The usual quick movements of her hands were slower now. The focus in her eyes, once unshakeable, had become distant at times.

She reached for a pen to sign a document, but it slipped from her fingers, landing on the floor with a soft clatter. Haein frowned, blinking as if trying to shake off a sudden dizziness.

“Miss Haein?” Chaewoon’s voice was soft but laced with concern. She looked up, her expression briefly vacant before it cleared.

“I’m fine,” she muttered, her tone clipped as usual, but there was a hint of something off in the way she said it. A sharpness that had once been there now seemed worn, frayed around the edges.

Chaewoon stood, walking over to her desk. “You’re not fine.” He picked up the pen she’d dropped and handed it to her, his fingers brushing against hers for a brief moment. Haein didn’t seem to notice, her hand shaky as she grasped the pen.

“It’s just the headaches.” She replied, he wasn’t sure if she was trying to convince him, or herself.

But it wasn’t just this one moment.

Chaewoon had seen it before—the slight hesitation in her steps, the way her confident stride would falter for half a second, as if her body momentarily forgot how to move. At first, he brushed it off, thinking she was merely lost in thought. But it kept happening. Again and again.

And so, he couldn’t help it—he found himself watching her more closely, worrying about her with every step she took.

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One night, as Chaewoon escorted her back to the mansion, he noticed it again. Her hand, clutching her bag, trembled ever so slightly. Her steps were slower than usual, and her forehead had been pressed lightly all day, as if she were trying to soothe a growing ache.

Without a word, Chaewoon swiftly took the bag from her hands and gently placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, grounding her.

“Are you alright?” His voice was laced with quiet concern.

Haein sighed, “Can you stop doing that?”

Chaewoon blinked in surprise. “Doing what?”

“Being dramatic,” she muttered, though there was no real anger in her tone, just a tired edge to it.

“I’m really fine, Mr. Woo. I’ve just been tired lately. You can stop worrying now.” She snatched the bag from him and walked off without looking back.

“I understand,” Chaewoon said softly, though the words didn’t quite settle in her chest.

When Haein reached her room, she immediately regretted her harsh response. She hadn’t meant to push him away like that, but she hated feeling vulnerable in front of him.

She sank down on the edge of her bed, her head heavy with more than just fatigue.

If she was honest with herself, something didn’t feel right. Her headaches had become constant, her memory slipping more often than not, and sometimes, her vision blurred as if she were seeing through a fog.

It only added to her growing frustration, and she didn’t want to take it out on Chaewoon—especially when she knew he was just trying to help. But the truth was, his concern was starting to wear on her.

Why is he so concerned anyway? What am I to him?

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It was a busy morning for Hong Haein. News had arrived that the Director of Hycerna would be visiting Korea and attending the 20th Investors Gala the following week. Haein had long been working to secure a deal to bring Hycerna to Queen’s Department Store—and she wasn’t about to let this opportunity slip through her fingers.

Determined, she spent the morning clearing her schedule and strategizing how best to convince Mr. Hermann to sign with Queen’s.

Meanwhile, Chaewoon stood outside her closet room, mildly concerned as he listened to the thuds of shoes and the rustling of clothes being thrown onto the floor.

A moment later, Haein emerged from the chaos, two dresses held up on hangers.

“Choose. Both are limited edition from Hycerna. Which one will make a better impression?” she asked, slightly breathless.

“You’re asking for my opinion?” Chaewoon blinked.

“I’m in a dilemma, obviously. I need a second opinion,” she said, thrusting the dresses forward.

Chaewoon narrowed his eyes. To him, the two dresses looked almost identical—but he wisely kept that thought to himself, he knew Haein would glare at him if he said that.

“I think both dresses would look beautiful on you,” he said, making Haein blink in surprise.

“But,” he continued thoughtfully, “if you want to make a strong first impression as a serious businesswoman, I’d go with the one on the left. The one on the right feels more like you’re hosting a party.”

Haein stared at him, momentarily caught off guard. She hadn’t expected him to actually take the question seriously, much less give such a thoughtful answer.

And to her own surprise, she found herself appreciating it.

“Thanks. Are you usually this good with women’s clothes?” Haein asked, disappearing into the closet with the dress in hand.

Chaewoon chuckled, leaning back against the doorframe. “Let’s just say having an older sister gave me plenty of training. You wouldn’t believe how many outfit decisions I had to make for her growing up.” He smiled at the memory of him when he was young, held hostage by his older sister as she shoved different clothes in front him.

Haein smiled at the thought, sliding into the dress. “Sounds like you two are close.”

“Yeah, we are,” he said, a fond look passing over his face. “Our parents were always working, so she basically played the role of a second mom. She nagged the hell out of me, we bickered constantly—but she always had my back. I’ll always be grateful for her.”

Inside the closet, Haein paused, touched by how warmly he spoke about his sister. “Where is she now? Does she live overseas?” She asked, recalling the picture she saw on his account before. It looked like it was taken at another country.

Chaewoon nodded. “Yeah. They moved Germany for her daughter’s medical treatment.”

Chaewoon’s voice softened slightly, the usual playfulness giving way to something quieter. “My niece was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune condition. Treatment options here were limited, but there’s a specialist in Berlin. They’ve been there for almost two years now.”

Haein, still behind the door, stilled at the weight of his words. “That must’ve been hard… for all of you.”

“It was,” he admitted. “But they’re doing okay now. My niece is responding well to the treatment. She’s a tough little kid.”

There was a small pause, only the sound of fabric shifting as Haein adjusted the dress. Then, her voice came, gentler than before. “You really care about your family.”

Chaewoon huffed a short laugh. “Of course. I owe a lot to them.” Then, trying to lighten the mood, he added, “Though I’m still salty about being her fashion guinea pig for all those years.”

The door creaked slightly as Haein peeked out, one hand gripping the frame. “Well, all that trauma paid off. This dress fits perfectly.”

When Haein finally stepped out of her closet, Chaewoon looked up—and froze for just a moment.

Haein stood there, the soft lighting catching the subtle shimmer of the fabric. The color complimented her skin tone, the cut elegant but simple. She looked both graceful and strong.

“Well?” she asked, casually adjusting the cuffs of her sleeves. “How do I look?”

Chaewoon stood there, his eyes glued to her. “You… look nice.”

Haein raised an eyebrow. “That all you got, Mr. Former Fashion Consultant?”

Chaewoon stepped forward without a word and smoothed the cuffs for her, his touch careful.

“You look beautiful, Miss Haein,” he said softly.

She stilled.

He had said that word before—beautiful. A compliment she’d heard countless times, from countless people. It never meant much. But somehow, when he said it, it landed differently. Quiet. Sincere. Almost reverent.

She cleared her throat, composing herself. “I always do.”

Chaewoon smiled faintly, as if he’d been waiting for that exact answer. He let her go, but not without one last glance.

Haein turned toward the full-length mirror in her room, adjusting the hem of her blouse. But just as she took a step, her vision blurred, and her legs wavered slightly beneath her.

Chaewoon instinctively moved forward, his hand twitching at his side, ready to steady her. But he stopped himself—just in time. He remembered her words from the other day, Can you stop doing that? Being dramatic.

So, he stayed rooted where he was, jaw tightening, his eyes following her every movement. He didn’t want to upset her again. Didn’t want to make her feel like she was being treated like glass.

But to him, it wasn’t a small thing. Not anymore. Not when it had been happening more often lately—those brief moments when she’d falter, sway, or lose her breath just a beat too long.

Haein caught it—the way his body had tensed the moment she stumbled, the way his concern almost leapt forward again. He didn’t say anything. But he didn’t have to. She could feel it.

She didn’t actually mind Chaewoon’s quiet protectiveness. In truth, it warmed her more than she ever admitted. But today, she didn’t want to be the cause of that look on his face again. The one that hovered between worry and restraint.

Maybe it was pride. Maybe it was fear. Or maybe it was something softer, harder to name.

Because the truth was, she liked the way he made her feel—safe, seen. Around him, she could let her guard down. She could look tired, be tired, and not feel ashamed. He never asked her to be anything more than herself.

But the more time they spent together, the more she felt it—that ache in her chest every time she caught him quietly watching her like she might disappear.

And that…

That was the part that scared her.

< Chapter 9 Chapter 11 >

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taglist: @lvnat1c @strangerinthesecretforest <3

CHOI SAN: Predator

Will be busy this weekend! Might drop the first chapter on Monday :)

UNSPOKEN - Synopsis

This is a story between Woo Chaewoon (Ju Jihoon) from Blood Free and Hong Haein (Kim Jiwon) from Queen of Tears

The undercover bodyguard and the chaebol heiress.

Woo Chaewoon was sent with one mission—get close to Chairman Hong, gain his trust, and uncover the secrets buried beneath Queens Group. But everything went off-script when the chairman, without warning, reassigned him as Hong Haein’s personal bodyguard.

Haein wasn’t just cold—she was ice itself. Sharp words, dismissive glances, and an iron-clad wall that no one dared to cross. “I don’t need a watchdog,” she told him on the first day, barely sparing him a glance. “Just stay out of my sight.” Her voice was clipped, her tone indifferent.

Chaewoon didn’t flinch. He met her gaze with the same level of calm he always carried. “Understood.” He said simply.

But he didn’t. He was always there—silently opening car doors, intercepting aggressive reporters, shielding her from prying eyes. She hated it at first. The way he was always watching, always within reach. But then came the moments she couldn’t ignore. The way he handed her warm tea on late, exhausting nights. How he stood in the pouring rain, waiting for her car to arrive, not moving an inch despite being drenched. The steady, unshaken presence that never demanded anything from her—just stayed.

She started to notice things. The way his eyes softened when she was exhausted. How his voice, always neutral, carried a quiet sincerity whenever he spoke to her. The way his hands, calloused yet careful, always seemed to steady her before she event realized she was faltering.

Chaewoon noticed things too. The way she laughed—real laughter—when she thought no one was watching. The tired loneliness in her eyes when the world wasn’t looking. The way her coldness wasn’t indifference, but armor.

He shouldn’t care. He was a spy, an outsider. But every time he called her name, every time she let her guard down just a little, he knew—his mission was no longer as simple as it once was. It was in the way his pulse slowed when he knew she was safe. The way he memorized his habits without meaning to—the slight furrow of her brows when she was deep in thought, the way she stirred her tea exactly three time before drinking it, and the way he started noticing the way her gaze softens when their eyes meet.

And when Haein, without thinking, grabbed his wrist one night, stopping him from leaving—her grip hesitant but firm—he realized she was beginning to see him too.

And that? That was more dangerous than any mission he had ever taken.

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Might actually make this into a full-length fanfiction with 10 chapters at most. I already have drafts but I still need to polish them. But idk we'll see :')

behold the ✨ abs trilogy ✨

also known as the fever series😂

First Love - Ju Jihoon x Song Jihyo

genre: second-chance romance, angst, fluff, slow-burn, mutual pinning

Introduction Chapter

The first time Ju Jihoon met Song Jihyo, she was standing by the director’s chair, flipping through her script with a focused gaze. It was 2005, and they were about to begin filming Princess Hours. He had never acted before, and she had only been in a few projects, but something about her made him want to do his best.

They were just co-stars at first—running lines, sharing meals on set, laughing at their own mistakes. But as weeks turned into months, and the love story of their characters unfolded on screen, something real sparked between them. Jihoon found himself drawn to Jihyo’s warmth, her easy laughter, the way she never let the long hours get to her. Jihyo, in turn, admired Jihoon’s quiet determination, his playful but protective nature, the way he made even the most tiring days feel fun.

By the time Princess Hours wrapped, they weren’t just acting anymore. They were in love.

For three years, they were inseparable. They went on late-night drives, whispered secrets in quiet cafes, and stole moments together away from the public eye. It was a love that felt endless—until it wasn’t.

Their careers skyrocketed. The pressure mounted. The scandals, the misunderstandings, the weight of their growing responsibilities—it all became too much. And so, one evening, after a long and painful conversation, they let go.

And they never spoke again.

Years passed, but some memories refused to fade.

Jihyo, surrounded by friends over drinks, would smile softly as she recalled her first love. “We were hanging out, and I fell asleep. He then woke me up and took me to the room next door, which was completely filled with balloons. He had planned it all beforehand to surprise me. I was really moved.”

One time, in an interview, when she met a young idol born in 2009, she jokingly blurted, "If my first love did not fail, I might've had a daughter your age by now."

Jihoon, in turn, would catch glimpses of her everywhere. One night when drinking with friends, he suddenly muttered, “Maybe it’s because I’m drunk, but I have been thinking about it for a while, my heart aches, because you look like my ex-girlfriend.” He’d laugh it off and push the thoughts away, but they lingered, like a song he couldn’t forget.

One time, in an interview, he was given a choice: “Memories are just memories” or “Meet your first love again”?

He hesitated. Then, with a small smile, he answered, “If the opportunity arises and the situation allows, I will meet her.”

Years later, the opportunity came.

It was at an industry event, a quiet gathering of actors, directors, and old friends. Jihoon had just stepped outside for air when he saw her.

Jihyo.

She was older now, but still beautiful, still radiant. Her eyes widened when she noticed him, and for a moment, neither of them moved.

“…It’s been a long time,” Jihoon finally said, his voice quieter than he expected.

Jihyo nodded. “It has.”

A silence stretched between them—not uncomfortable, just full. Full of everything they had been, everything they had lost.

Then, she smiled. “Still standing awkwardly at parties, I see.”

Jihoon chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. “And you still talk first when I don’t know what to say.”

She laughed. And just like that, the years between them blurred.

Neither of them said it out loud, but they felt it. That pull. That warmth.

Some loves never truly leave.

And maybe, just maybe, some are meant to find their way back.

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Hi everyone! I’m super excited to finally share this story with you. I’ve been drafting it for a while now, and honestly… I might be a little too delusional about these two ;—;

Most of the story will be inspired by real interviews, and I’ll be linking them directly in the text (like some of the underlined/linked dialogues in this chapter), so feel free to check them out if you’re curious! Now, we’ll probably never know if they were actually referring to each other in those interviews—but hey, we’re allowed to assume, right? :')

Anyway, I hope you enjoy reading! I’ll try my best to upload new chapters every weekend. (Although I might be inconsistent since I'm also trying to update my other stories; Unspoken and Trauma Code: A Hero in Love).

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Chapter List: (still in my drafts)

Chapter 1: An Old Memory of You Chapter 2: A Quiet Confession Chapter 3: Behind The Scenes Chapter 4: The Cherries Chapter 5: Just A Glimpse Chapter 6: The Apology That Never Came Chapter 7: The Question of Us

“Get in loser we’re going shopping”